Student Voices

In response to the question, “What is the most unique aspects of Taylor Diversion Programs?”

The most unique aspect of Taylor diversion programs is how family oriented the program is. I never really imagined when I arrived here that the actual owners of the program would spend so much individual time with me despite the amount of work they do. Not only them, but almost every mentor here has been able to give me a unique perspective on life that’s helped me grow in a way that would’ve been impossible to do on my own or in any other setting. Everyone here has a different way of viewing and handling situations, and all are beneficial to us in their own rights. Everything here is specialized to the youth- there’s no ranks, points or labels on us. They realize that we’re not just delinquents that need to do time- we’re real people just like everyone else. Most of us have gone through some trauma and/or haven’t had anyone to care for us and guide us through life, leading to troubling situations. But we’re not bad people and we’re not completely broken- and everyone at Taylor diversion recognizes that. When I arrived here I was completely lost and disconnected from who I really am. With the help of everyone here I’m now going to college, working, and I’ve learned how to truly be happy on my own without needing any substances or any one person to make me happy. What I’ve learned from the unique situation I’ve been put in is worth more to me than anything I could’ve got anywhere else, and that’s what makes Taylor diversion unique to me. Sent from my iPhoneStudent, April 2016

Through our diversion programs, TDP provides experiences that give youth the opportunities they need to increase their chances for success and the necessary skills to better manage their risks through strength enhancement.

What others are saying…

Taylor Diversion Program not only addresses the development of competencies necessary for a successful transition to living independently in the community, but also includes a family component which assists in the rebuilding of relationships between family, caregivers, schools and communities, an area in which most of these youth have ‘broken many bridges’. Mentoring is a critical component of this program which will be an ongoing process throughout the stay.Children and Youth Services Representative

“After visiting the site and hearing the plans you have for TDP, I believe the types of programs and services that you propose to offer will fulfill an important need in the region. The intent of this mentoring program is to help at risk children develop the competencies needed to develop a successful lifestyle and assist in rebuilding relationships between family, caregivers, schools and communities.”Congressman

“I am firmly convinced that having this leadership and mentoring program in our area will have a very positive impact on our students, our schools, and our communities. It is discouraging to witness deteriorating behavior and performance in young people who we know have ample potential, but are not served adequately by the confines of public education. I know that the motivation behind Taylor Diversion Programs is to reach students before they head too far down the wrong path. Even at our small, rural high school, we encounter numerous students that become involved with juvenile probation, placement facilities, and/or incarceration during and after high school. Taylor Diversion Programs will create a scenario where caring adults can have a positive impact in preventing the patterns of negative behavior, rather than reacting to it after the fact.”-Guidance Counselor

Our Mission

TDP provides supportive prevention services for troubled youth and their families by using proven strategies in education, vocation, nature and wellness in order to create stronger, healthier communities.

Our Promise

As TDP grows, we will continue our commitment to exceed the expectations of the populations served; moreover, we will remain committed to treating every youth as family.

Multi-faceted Approach

TDP has created a unique, four-dimensional Prevention/Intervention program for youth:

TDP is a 501(c)(3) organization, fully licensed by PA 3800 regulations to operate a residential independent living program. We also have a private licensed school, through the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Lighthouse Island Academy.

BINGO at Taylor Diversion Programs

We now offer BINGO on the 3rd Friday of every month! TDP students and mentors have operated a set of “cash-pay” Bingo games that have attracted many community members, as well as patrons from Tidioute and Titusville.